Phil Spencer Addresses Forza Motorsport Isn’t Finished As Xbox Focuses On Current Projects

The bone structure of Xbox has remained in question following the wave of layoffs that hit the Microsoft gaming division earlier this year. From efforts like Everwild being shuttered to even dismantling potential future plans for Romero Games & canning Avalanche Studios’ Contraband too, there is plenty that is now on the cutting room floor more than desired.

Other upsets at Xbox internally includes the closure of The Initiative. The ending of this Santa Monica-based team also faced with the death of the anticipated Perfect Dark reboot too. Even Turn 10 Studios is hit with surprising news as half of its workforce was affected by the decision. It was reported the team was subjected to being a support team as Playground Games’ Forza Horizon spin-off remains in the limelight. 

At the time, it was assumed that the Forza Motorsport IP as a whole would cease to be. But according to Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer, he told Famitsu in a recent interview that Forza Motorsport is still alive. But, current ongoing projects are the current focus for Xbox Game Studios. 

“Regarding Forza Motorsport, sometimes we need to shift focus to games that need to ship sooner. We understand the reaction many had when we scaled back Turn 10 Studios. We have many games we want to support with care, and sometimes we give development teams more time to avoid putting them under constant strain. Our current structure, with multiple studios, allows for this flexibility,” Spencer told; thanks Video Game Chronicle.

“Xbox Game Studios encompasses over 20 studios, each with multiple games in development, and each requiring different levels of support. Some projects require a short-term focus, while others demand a medium-to-long-term perspective. We genuinely want the games we publish to succeed. Xbox Game Studios has numerous titles in development, so please stay tuned for what’s coming.” Spencer also expands on the future of Halo as it was in the same question as Forza Motorsport.

“Halo Studios (formerly 343 Industries) is planning for the future to pursue new initiatives. We’re focusing on Unreal Engine 5 and investing in new technologies. We’re setting up a system that allows them to take the time needed, make the investment befitting the Halo franchise, and create something great as the next new entry in the Halo series.”

Are you surprised by Spencer’s statement on Forza Motorsport?